Course Leg Rating & Rankings
Coastal Relay 2026 Course Leg Ratings & Rankings
The Coastal Relay course features 12 unique legs, each offering its own challenges. Difficulty ratings are based on a combination of distance, elevation gain, bridge climbs, exposure to wind and sun, and overall effort required.
| Leg | Difficulty | Overall Rank* | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Moderate | 6 | A strong opening leg featuring moderate distance and some rolling terrain to start the day. |
| 2 | Easy | 10 | A relatively flat, forgiving leg that is well-suited for runners of all abilities. |
| 3 | Hard | 2 | One of the longest legs on the course has some elevation gain, making it an early test of endurance. |
| 4 | Moderate | 7 | Shorter in distance, but includes enough elevation to provide a solid challenge. |
| 5 | Easy | 12 | The shortest leg that offers runners a chance to maintain a strong pace. |
| 6 | Hard | 3 | A demanding combination of distance and some elevation. |
| 7 | Moderate | 8 | An average-length leg with a relatively forgiving elevation profile. |
| 8 | Hard | 4 | Long, flat, and exposed. Wind and sun can make this leg more difficult than its elevation profile suggests. |
| 9 | Very Hard | 1 | The signature challenge of the Coastal Relay. This is the longest leg of the race and features the greatest elevation gain. |
| 10 | Hard | 5 | A longer leg requires sustained effort, even though the elevation is relatively modest. Could be windy! |
| 11 | Moderate | 9 | A shorter leg, but runners may encounter warmer afternoon temperatures. |
| 12 | Easy | 11 | A short leg of the race and a rewarding finish at Ferry Wharf. |
*Overall Rank: 1 = Hardest, 12 = Easiest
Signature Legs
- Leg 2 – Enjoy the flat and quiet charm of the Sawmill Branch Trail for most of the route.
- Leg 8 – Experience the charm and beautiful architecture of Charleston as you run around the peninsula.
- Leg 9 – The premier challenge of the race, combining the longest distance with the greatest elevation gain, making it the toughest leg on the course. Plus epic views as you cross the Ravanel Bridge.
- Leg 11 - Start at the beach and experience Sullivan's Island and amazing views of the Intracoastal Waterway.
